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By the Sword

Name: By the Sword
Director: Jeremy Kagan
Released: 1991
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

1991

Director

Jeremy Kagan

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

By the Sword is a sophisticated historical drama that excels in its examination of ethnic identity. It uses the protagonist's struggle against a genocidal regime to challenge oppressive political structures and conventional narratives of state authority. While the film provides a nuanced look at the psychological impact of systemic prejudice, it remains focused on male-dominated spheres of espionage and political maneuvering. Its strength lies in its portrayal of a underrepresented Jewish protagonist exercising ability to act in high-stakes infiltration, effectively critiquing the systemic violence of the era.

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Category Breakdown

Does By the Sword have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It focuses solely on the ethnic and political conflicts of 1930s Germany.

How does By the Sword portray gender?

Limited

The story follows a traditional masculine structure, focusing on male-dominated political and espionage activities. It lacks significant roles for women or challenges to conventional gender norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is By the Sword?

Excellent

The film offers a deep exploration of the Jewish experience. It centers on a Jewish protagonist who navigates a genocidal regime, highlighting the ability to act of a underrepresented individual.

How does By the Sword represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story critiques nationalist and authoritarian systems. It examines moral ambiguity and the collapse of societal order under a corrupt government.

Does By the Sword include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant representation of visible or invisible disabilities in the main storyline.

Present on Screen

Offers a profound examination of the Jewish experience during the rise of National Socialism.
Highlights the ability to act of a underrepresented protagonist navigating an oppressive regime.
Critiques nationalist and authoritarian institutions in a sophisticated manner.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ representation or narratives centered on non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
Focuses on a traditional masculine framework with limited roles for women.
Lacks representation of disability within the narrative.

Official Synopsis

An elderly man named Max comes to the famous fencing coach Villar and asks to take him on as a coach. But the coach does not like his weapon technique, and he only takes Max as a cleaner.

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